Nasim Sdn Bhd, the official distributor and custodian for the Peugeot brand in Malaysia, has launched the All-New Peugeot 5008 SUV, a modern automobile that gives users the attractive combination of status, sophisticated technology, impressive practicality and driving emotions.
The All-New Peugeot 5008 SUV makes a smooth transition from its MPV predecessor and breaks new ground as a large, expressive 7-seater SUV in the C-segment. As a new contender in this competitive segment, the All-New Peugeot 5008 SUV breathes new air in this segment with its blend of space and practicality of an MPV and the dynamic appeal of an SUV – meeting expectations of today’s customers. Here’s Joey G himself to tell us more about the 5008’s features!
Speaking at the launch event, Yasser Awan, CEO of Nasim Sdn Bhd, (below) said, “Impressive at first sight is the definitive design appeal of the All-New Peugeot 5008 SUV incorporating an agile driving experience that Peugeots are known for. The All-New 5008 truly stands out from its competitors, thanks to its versatility as an SUV and practicality of an MPV with its 7 seat configuration – combining the best of both worlds.”
Also present at the launch was Dato’ Samson Anand George, Group CEO, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings Sdn Bhd (below, 2nd from right). “The All-New Peugeot 5008 SUV is engineered with the best features and on-board experience from the French marque, in a spacious and luxurious design. We are positive the arrival of the All-New 5008 SUV will be the catalyst to ensure that Nasim’s sales target of 3,600 units in 2018 is achieved,” said Dato’ Samson.
The overall size of the vehicle remains compact at 4,641mm long and 1,844mm wide, yet for a spacious C-segment vehicle, the All-New Peugeot 5008 SUV – though 11cm longer than its predecessor – is still one of the most conservatively proportioned and its extra length makes it roomier for passengers. Speaking of room, here’s the lovely Julie Woon to show us more about the 5008!
An expressive front-end design with the Lion brand’s marque mirrors the assertive personality of its owner and pride in the brand identity. The finesse of the vehicle’s Advanced Full LED headlamps with sequential scrolling indicators give it a piercing feline gaze whether in day or night, and its striking form is accentuated by a chrome insert on the front wings that extend to the headlights, in a nod to Peugeot’s concept car – the HX1.
At the rear, the raised body line and chromed roof arc trim finishes elegantly at the quarter panel, giving off a more aerodynamic design profile that is further complemented by Peugeot’s signature three-claw LED rear lights. An extra-wide tailgate and low boot sill also hints at just how spacious the boot is.
The suave All-New Peugeot 5008 SUV is fitted with 18-inch alloy Los Angeles wheels with two-tone diamond finish, and stainless steel roof and prominent black wheel arches lend a subtle blend of character and sophistication to the vehicle contours.
Further embellishing the dashboard are central satin chrome ‘Toggle Switches’ for quick access to the main passenger comfort and safety functions: audio, air-conditioning, assistance settings, telephone, apps, and hazard warning lights. More refined, advanced and connected than before, the latest Peugeot i-Cockpit® offers more emotional satisfaction and customisation.
Under the hood, the All-New 5008 SUV is equipped with a 1.6 Turbo THP engine and boasts a fuel efficiency of 7.3 litres per 100km and CO2 emissions as low as 133g/km. Power is rated at 167Ps and 240Nm, with a top speed of 206kmh. 0-100kmh takes 9.2sec.
Offered in four distinctive colours Emerald Crystal, Amazonite Grey, Nera Black and Pearlescent White, the All-New 5008 SUV is currently on display in showrooms nationwide. The on-the-road price without insurance is RM173,888 in Peninsular Malaysia.
I hate this goddam car. Ever since the first time I drove it in mid-2016 during its official media drive (below), I knew I’d end up eventually hating it, and sure enough, I did. But before I create any (more) confusion – because sarcasm really doesn’t translate well in text – let me be clear. I hate it because it’s so damn good.
The VW Vento 1.2 TSi is like the baby sedan of the Volkswagen family, and boy is it ever belligerent. Part of my ire comes from the fact that the annual road-tax for this car is a paltry RM55, whereas I’m paying five times more than that yearly, for a car that’s nowhere even close to being this awesome. Seriously, a car paying only RM55 a year for road-tax has no damn business being this good.
And that’s just one of my smaller capacity cars that I’m comparing the Vento to, I’ve not even touched on the 2,800cc monster I also own, for which I’m paying (grabs calculator) 25 times more annual road-tax. And again, it’s nowhere near as good. Let that sink in a bit, and maybe you’ll start to feel my angst.
So you see, why I hate the Vento is because it made me seriously question my lifestyle choice of personal transport. Having always been (or for as long as I can remember, which is not very long) an old-school and classic car kinda guy, I began to consider the possibility of selling all the cars I own and settling once and for all, for a ‘new’ car, like this Vento. Now this wasn’t an easy feat to accomplish on the Vento’s part by any means, but it definitely gave it a go…
The official media drive encompassed a series of switchbacks as well as flat-out bursts on the highway. On the B-roads, the Vento performed very well, darting from corner to curve with uncanny dexterity, while on the highway when we weren’t puttering around and enjoying the elevated levels of comfort and low NVH, it managed to keep-up with much higher capacity sedans. Case in point a popular 2.4 family sedan, not known to be a slouch.
The Vento was able to tail this sedan at speeds exceeding 190kmh (actual photo above) and beyond, and all the while still feel composed and un-stressed. Even my co-driver who was at the wheel at the time (unabashed blame-shift right there), a guy not easily impressed, was impressed. As was I.
105Ps and 175Nm may not seem like a lot, and something tells me these figures are modest. it comes from a 4-cyl, direct-injection, turbocharged engine that’s only a 1,197cc (hence the ridiculously low annual road-tax).
To put that into perspective, my Kawasaki Voyager XII motorcycle has a bigger engine, but yet again, nowhere near as powerful. Oh yeah, while on that matter, that bikes’ annual road-tax also costs five times more than the Ventos’. For the full specifications and price list (the Vento’s, not my bike), click this link.
Well, if you’re tired of reading about it, have a look at this recent in-car video when I got my hands on the little Vento again, while I go off and sulk for a while…
So this time around, for this revisit of sorts, I had the Vento for a whole week, and after all was said and done, this was my final say on the car…
So yeah, the VW Vento, it’s made me question everything I’ve ever held dear to my heart, insofar as my personal thoughts and feelings on the automotive realm are concerned, and for that reason, and that reason alone, and maybe also because it costs less than a hundred grand, I still hate it. Just kidding. – Chris Wee.
VW Vento 1.2 TSi Photo Gallery (photos during official media drive in 2016 by Aaron Lee)
It’s been about 10 years since I first attended the Bangkok International Motorshow, commonly known as “BIMS” at the IMPACT Challenger just outside Bangkok, Thailand, and I have to say, both in terms of displays and organisation, this is one of the best motorshows in the region, if not THE best. Here was the first walk-around video upon arriving…
BIMS 2018 was held from 28th March to 8th April 2018, and from the time I touched down in Bangkok, till the time I left the show four days later, once again, GPI (Grand Prix International) the organisers of BIMS did a remarkable job ensuring that the media were well taken care of. Facilities included a full-fledged media centre for both local and international media, stocked with food, drinks, lockers, and tables replete with laptops for our use, printers, fax machines (yes, some still use those) and photocopiers. Having settled, it was time to head for the official opening ceremony…
The BIMS show itself is unlike anything in the region, literally. Not so much in the way it’s presented, but for the fact that BIMS is a ‘sales motorshow’ as well, one of the only, anywhere. While the actual display pavilions set-up by the various carmakers are of international standard – i.e. both the BMW and Mercedes-Benz pavilions look like they were brought in wholesale from Geneva or Frankfurt – behind the scenes, or rather display areas, and away from the main gaze of visitors, a frenzy of selling is taking place.
This year, a total of 42,499 vehicles were sold at BIMS, far surpassing their set target of 40,000; a conservative figure set forth from the 38,000 vehicles sold at BIMS 2017 . I also heard from the organiser that in 2017, one particular German brand sold more cars at BIMS than they did for the whole year on the outside. Such is the importance of this show, so much so that Ford decided it would be the perfect venue to launch the much-anticipated Ranger Raptor…
A staggering 1.6 MILLION visitors attended BIMS 2018, and while undoubtedly this was the truck everyone was waiting to see, it was just one of the many attractions to be found at BIMS, which really wouldn’t be complete without the lovely ladies that adorn every pavilion. This year, however, the organisers did something different; a catwalk! So in the span of 30min, everyone was able to meet and say hello to all the girls that would be part of BIMS 2018…
While in this day and age, many may question the need for girls to still be part of a motorshow, as Dr.Prachin Eamlumnow, (below) Chief Executive Officer of Grand Prix International himself put it…
“Cars and beautiful girls go hand-in-hand, both are lovely and both are unique, so why keep them apart; they should both always be celebrated and honoured at a motorshow; one compliments the other.” We tend to agree. So Formula One, you can just suck it for dispensing with them. And it’s not like they just stand there doing nothing at BIMS, for example this Suzuki girl was definitely waxing lyrical about the new bikes that were launched at the show…
Apart from new metal, BIMS holds the distinction of having the only “Used Car Fair” as well. Yes, you read that right, if the new cars don’t tickle your fancy, about a week after the official launch of BIMS, the organisers hold a second launch for the Used Car Show. All the cars sold here are certified and come with warranties, in addition to special ‘motorshow financing schemes’ that offer better and more flexible rates. Krungsri Auto, an official partner of BIMS for five years running, is at hand to assist anyone wishing to buy a used car at the show.
Another attraction of BIMS is the annex hall of IMPACT Challenger, which by the way is the largest piller-less hall in SEA, in which the Car Accessories section is housed. This is a must-stop for anyone visiting BIMS, because car accessories wise, it’s like a one-stop, anything-you-want-under-the-sun type of place. Here’s my walk-around, which in retrospect was ill-advised because I ended up spending half my money here later. Get this, I even found an aftermarket high-flow air-filter from Hurricane for my classic 1983 Mercedes W126 280SE… who the HELL sells stuff like that at a motorshow??? Trust BIMS to have it…
As night falls, the action doesn’t stop. Out the back of IMPACT Challenger, and at one of the many open air venues that’s home to external exhibits as well as test-drives, the car clubs and modders would take centre stage to show off their wares. I caught the tail-end of the modded truck show, and was (almost literally) blown away. The crazy amounts of bass that some of these trucks produce can apparently stop a heart from beating if you get too close….
Well, like I’ve always said, nobody wants to read about a motorshow, so until next year and the 40th Edition of BIMS, here’s the FULL photo gallery of the 39th Bangkok International Motorshow 2018! – Chris Wee.
BIMS 2018 Photo Gallery… (More Videos after the jump)
:::::::: MORE Videos ::::::::
BMW @ BIMS 2018…
Aston Martin @ BIMS 2018…
Suzuki Bikes @ BIMS 2018…
Bikes, Accessories & MORE GIRLS @ BIMS 2018…
Acknowledgement: With heartfelt gratitude, Piston.my (and me personally) would like to thank the organisers of BIMS, Grand Prix International, for the invite to cover this yearly event yet again; GPI are the most gracious hosts I’ve ever had the privilege of meeting, and it’s a genuine pleasure and honour to cover this event annually.Thank you! – Chris Wee.
Shell Malaysia has kicked off the 2018 edition of its road safety movement with four major programmes aimed at driving home the importance of road safety among young motorcyclists and youth.
Shell Malaysia Road Safety Movement or fondly known as #ShellSelamatSampai (#SSS) is a Shell Malaysia social investment programme that comprehensively drives road safety awareness and behavioural change among motorcyclists and youth, who contribute to the highest fatality rate in road crashes in Malaysia.
For the first time, Shell Advance, the leading motorcycle engine oil brand in Malaysia, will be actively involved by conducting motorcycle maintenance workshops to inculcate the habit of proactive maintenance and proper lubrication practice. Properly maintained vehicles, including motorcycles, are crucial in reducing the number of road accidents.
This year, #ShellSelamatSampai (#SSS) consists of four main components, namely #SSS School Outreach, #SSS MyLesen, #SSS School Challenge and #SSS Varsity Challenge. The #SSS School Outreach programme will see Shell Malaysia attempt to drive home its ‘Goal Zero’ accident-free zone message through a fun, educational and interactive roadshow to 20 schools nationwide.
In the #SSS MyLesen programme, Shell will sponsor 40 Sabahan students from Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Badin in Tuaran and SMK Inanam in Kota Kinabalu to obtain a valid motorcycle-riding license. The selected students would have the opportunity to undergo training on defensive riding, road safety awareness and how to handle emergencies, and a motorcycle maintenance workshop by Shell Advance. The programme sees a joint effort collaborating Shell Malaysia with the Road Transport Department (JPJ), traffic police (PDRM) and the Ministry of Education.
Meanwhile, the #SSS Varsity Challenge aims to challenge students in six selected universities across the country, namely Curtin University, Monash University, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, Universiti Sains Malaysia and Universiti Teknologi Mara, to develop technical prototypes or devices for road safety intervention that could help prevent road-related accidents among road users with a Grand Prize of RM10,000 in cash awaiting the most impactful, creative and sustainable project.
This year the selected twenty schools nationwide would also take part in in the #SSS School Challenge, which is similar to the #SSS Varsity Challenge in terms of objective and reward. Since 1957, Shell Malaysia has been a strong advocate for the improvement of road safety culture amongst Malaysians. For more information on #ShellSelamatSampai, please visit www.shell.com.my.
In Early March this year, a group of 33 PROTON dealers got the opportunity to visit one of Geely’s dealer outlets in Shanghai. The dealer visit was established with the focus to enable PROTON dealers to have a real look and experience Geely’s dealer set up and how this experience could be helpful in setting up similar facade and feel here in Malaysia.
For Lum Hon Yoon, of Gagah Murni Sdn Bhd, “It is a good experience being here. We get to see closer how a Geely dealer outlet looks like. There is a good use of space. More importantly, it has different areas for customers to feel comfortable, there are coffee area, discussion area, children area and reading area as well. This means that this place is catered for the whole family. Parents do not have to worry so much as the kids will have a play area, or if the wife needs reading time, then she can occupy the reading area, hence anyone can come and be occupied with something and not be bored while waiting for the car to be serviced,” Lum explained.
These areas serve its purpose and many of the dealers liked the idea, and view it as a modern family needs. “People are always busy and the idea to send in a car for service for a few hours seem like a whole day. With built-in areas such as the discussion area, this could also serve as a meeting point where two or more people can come and have a small discussion. Moreover, the existence of a coffee area means that you do not have to run to the nearest Starbucks or Coffee Bean just to get your morning or afternoon coffee fix to get your day going,” observed Aw Chiew Soon, of Warna Bestari Sdn Bhd.
Razali Ahmad, of Erakars Sdn Bhd shared similar views. “The showroom area is more or less like the ones we currently have in PROTON outlets. What separates it is the spacious waiting area and the comfortable rest area that looks like your home living room, which is what I anticipate customers will like the most. The additional facilities becomes the pull factor in attracting customers to come service their cars. At least patrons can occupy their time in the most productive ways, so overall it is a plus factor”.
For some other dealers, what impressed them was the smart uniform, and their professional ways of greeting the PROTON entourage.
“As for me, the spaciousness of the waiting area is an appealing idea. More so, what impresses me is their uniform. The guys and girls all look so smart. This is also good for business. Customers who come in, could feel the ‘one ness’ in their approach. For us, it is all about attracting customers to showroom,” explained Azizulmu’min Mohd Hussein Malim, of Rohamas Corporation Sdn Bhd.
“Furthermore, when sales and service staff speak the same language, be it in terms of uniform, or approach, it confers a lot of confidence amongst the customers, hence selling a product becomes easier, aside from good product knowledge,” Azizulmu’min said.
Footnote from the Editor: So our dear Proton Dealers, are you convinced yet? Other carmakers have been offering this kind of customer service at their premises here for decades, thus it really isn’t asking too much for ALL Proton outlets to do the same now, is it? – Chris Wee.
The inaugural Fullerton Concours d’Elegance, a three-day celebration, is set to transform The Fullerton Heritage precinct in Singapore from 29th June to 1st July, 2018. Organised as the pinnacle event to mark the 90th anniversary of the iconic Fullerton Building, now home to The Fullerton Hotel Singapore, it offers visitors a diverse range of activities and experiences that embody the building’s rich heritage and the brand’s passion for luxury hospitality and lifestyle.
Anchoring the event will be a showcase of more than 90 vintage and classic cars, as well as supercars from around the world, taking visitors on a journey through time across The Fullerton Heritage precinct. Other highlights include gala dinners, live music performances, art and cultural exhibitions, workshops, family fun activities, luxury yacht displays and charity car convoys set against a panoramic view.
Cavaliere Giovanni Viterale, General Manager, The Fullerton Heritage, said, “As one of the most iconic colonial buildings in Singapore, The Fullerton Building has been preserved with the highest form of recognition for its national significance. Likewise, the Fullerton Concours d’Elegance represents the pinnacle in automotive heritage and excellence, celebrating the best in collector and car design. The event will be a fitting showcase that not only pays tribute to the heritage of the Grand Dame, but also celebrates the building’s continued relevance in bringing the community together and creating shared memories.”
The Fullerton Building was gazetted as a National Monument on 7th December 2015 in recognition of its pivotal role in Singapore’s history. It previously housed the General Post Office, once the “most important post office in the East,” and served as “Mile Zero” from which all of Singapore was measured. Today, the Fullerton Building serves as the cornerstone of The Fullerton Heritage precinct, which comprises seven key establishments: The Fullerton Hotel Singapore, The Fullerton Bay Hotel Singapore, The Fullerton Waterboat House, One Fullerton, The Fullerton Pavilion, Clifford Pier and Customs House.
Activities have been curated to ensure there is something for everyone. Highlights of the celebration include:
An unprecedented tribute to automotive excellence
The preeminent Concours d’Elegance (competition of elegance) showcases some of the finest examples of pre-war and post-war collector cars in terms of history, craftsmanship, power and technology. Restored vintage cars from the 1920s, antique cars from the 1930s, classic cars from the 1970s, and modern marvels will be prominently displayed along the picturesque waterfront at Clifford Square and Clifford Pier, in the iconic Fullerton Hotel Singapore and at Fullerton Square.
Highlights include the classic 1934 Austin Seven Ulster Special, which boasts an aluminium body with no doors, a 1961 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II from the hotel’s recently restored Rolls-Royce fleet, and the legendary Lamborghini Miura previously owned by Don Miura himself. Visitors will be the first in the region to see the 2018 Rolls-Royce Dawn Black Badge and 2018 Ferrari Portofino. Additionally, innovative electric car prototypes created by the students from Nanyang Technological University will be displayed at One Fullerton.
For the first time in Singapore, visitors can also view the largest display of cars owned by His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar, Sultan and Sovereign Ruler of the State and Territory of Johor Darul Ta’zim.
Admission to the Fullerton Concours d’Elegance starts from S$9.90 *(RM 29.30) for a Single-Day Pass. Gold Passes are also available for access to VIP areas and the after-party at Lantern in The Fullerton Bay Hotel. Children under five years old will enjoy free admission.
Mere weeks ahead of its official debut, Brabham Automotive has released headline figures and a teaser image for the much-anticipated BrabhamBT62!
The teaser image shows the rear of a low-slung, race-inspired car. The BT62’s thin LED accent tail lights are reflected in its extreme carbon fibre rear wing, which points to the car’s performance potential. Have a look, with more tech details in this video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=906OJ–6fjg
With performance characteristics that point to the potency of the car, the new Brabham is pure-bred for the track and capable of setting blistering lap times, designed and engineered to demand more from the driver and reward the limited few who will rise to its challenge. The BT62 boasts a power-to-weight ratio of 730ps per tonne, a dry weight of just 972kg and is powered by a Brabham naturally-aspirated 5.4 litre capacity V8 engine. Have a listen!
With its performance-optimised body and aggressive aerodynamic package, the Brabham BT62 delivers over 1200kg of downforce. Saving additional weight and with additive performance, the BT62’s brakes are carbon/carbon – a current Formula 1 technology that was first introduced to the sport by Brabham in 1976 – featuring six pistons front and rear. Here’s more…
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QDg7qvL1sTE
Celebrating seventy years since Sir Jack Brabham launched his racing career in Australia in 1948, production of the Brabham BT62 will be limited to just seventy cars. With a price of £1m plus local taxes, and before options, orders are being taken now, and first deliveries are expected later this year. Owners of the BT62 will join a Brabham driver development programme which will enable them to fully exploit the performance of the vehicle on the track.
For more news from Brabham and the BT62, log on to:
The FerrariPortofino was the undisputed star of a Europe-wide tour that hit the road on 16 April. The famous Ligurian town, that both gave the car its name and played host to a world premiere attended by hundreds of clients in September 2017, provided the starting line from which 20 examples of the new Ferrari departed to over 60 cities across the continent.
The Prancing Horse’s most loyal enthusiasts and collectors were treated to a truly exclusive preview of the car’s prowess as they took turns behind the wheel of the Ferrari Portofino on Europe’s most beautiful roads to experience the car’s performance across a wide variety of conditions.
Three alternating itineraries crisscrossed very different terrains, ranging from the rolling Tuscan hills to the slopes of the Alps, the Cote d’Azur, the Scandinavian Peninsula, Stockholm Bay and the Port of Belfast. Settings that of course provided the perfect showcase for the driving pleasure and versatility of this stunning convertible GT, permitting clients to savour the V8 engine’s 600hp, the handling and superior in-car comfort that put it at the top its category.
BMW Group Malaysia has introduced the All-New BMW X3, which will be locally-assembled (CKD) for the first time in the country, allowing its price to be RM320,000. This demonstrates BMW Group Malaysia’s commitment to growing its investments here in Malaysia, a move that further emphasises Malaysia as the hub for the BMW Group in South East Asia.
Mr. Harald Hoelzl, (above) Managing Director and CEO of BMW Group Malaysia said, “Today, we celebrate a new generation of the BMW X3, which in the history of the premium automotive industry, is the creator of the mid-sized premium SAV segment in 2003. This is a perfect example on the BMW belief that the best way to predict the future is to create it. With over two generations of the BMW X3, we have delivered more than 1.5 million vehicles to lead the segment all over the world. Today, the All-New BMW X3 is set to continue to write the next chapter in BMW’s success story in the premium segment.”
Hoelzl added that with over 1,000 units already delivered in 2018, the BMW X Family is enjoying a significant 39% growth in Malaysia, compared to the same period last year. Driving this performance is The Boss – the BMW X5, and the First-Ever BMW X2. Now, with the All-New BMW X3, BMW Group Malaysia looks forward to pushing the BMW X Family further this year.
“For the very first time, the independent and passionate BMW X3 is made available from launch as a locally assembled vehicle to offer our customers here a wider choice and availability of products as well as a differentiation, option and a mix from our offering of fully imported models in the premium sports activity vehicle segment,” Hoelzl said.
Overall, BMW Group Malaysia delivered 3,000 BMW, MINI and Motorrad vehicles in the first quarter of 2018, charting an impressive 15% growth compared to the same period last year with 2,600 vehicles delivered. In the details, the BMW brand saw an 18% growth in deliveries with over 2,500 new vehicles in the first quarter of 2018 (Q12017: 2,100 vehicles).
MINI, meanwhile, grew by 6% – delivering over 220 vehicles compared to the same period in 2017 where 200 vehicles were delivered. While BMW Motorrad grew by 2% in the first quarter of 2018 with close to 260 motorcycles delivered to customers.
The new locally-assembled BMW X3 is priced at RM320,000 (OTR w/o insurance)
More on the new BMW X3…
The All-New BMW X3 now sports an even more striking and dynamic design language, boasting class leading driving systems and dynamics – all of which attribute to All-New BMW X3’s independent spirit. “It is only fair that the All-New BMW X3 is called The Independent in the BMW X Family,” Hoelzl said.
The All-New BMW X3 is introduced in the variant of the BMW X3 xDrive30i Luxury. The dynamic handling qualities of the All-New BMW X3 are rooted in its ideal 50:50 weight distribution, its meticulously honed chassis and the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system, which made its debut in 2003 when the first generation of the BMW X3 was launched.
Sharper Design with Distinctive Looks.
The All-New BMW X3 elevates the already bold dynamic design language of its predecessor to new, even more eye-catching territory. The third generation of the pioneering premium mid-sized Sports Activity Vehicle treads a familiar BMW X family path in combining rugged off-road looks with sporting presence. The exterior dimensions of the All-New BMW X3 may be largely unchanged, but its five-centimetre-longer wheelbase, long bonnet and short front overhang with even more finely balanced proportions – which emphasise the perfect 50:50 distribution of weight between the front and rear axle – give it the edge over its predecessor.
At the front end, the “three-dimensional” kidney grille treatment and foglamps featuring a hexagonal design for the very first time on a BMW X model, underline the confident character of the All-New BMW X3. The SAV features LED headlights with low-beam and high-beam, side lights and cornering lights. The All-New BMW X3 also features high-beam assistant which switches head lights to high beam automatically when needed. The underbody protection in Frozen Grey and high-gloss Chrome. The All-New BMW X3 sits on 19” light alloy wheels Double Spoke bicolour Ferric Grey.
Moving to the rear, the light clusters (whose three-dimensional look in full-LED guise give them significant visual impact), markedly downward-sloping roof spoiler and twin exhaust tailpipes bring matters to a suitably muscular conclusion. The cargo space offers versatility as it can be expanded from 550 litres to 1,600 litres when the seats are folded down. The Comfort Access with contactless boot operation allows for added user-convenience with keyless access to the vehicle, including contactless access to the tailgate.
Supreme Driving Pleasure, Exceptional Efficiency.
The cutting-edge BMW TwinPower Turbo 2.0 in-line four-cylinder petrol engine sits at the heart of the All-New BMW X3, which comprises of TwinScroll turbocharging, High Precision Injection, Double-VANOS variable camshaft control and Valvetronic fully variable valve timing. With an 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission, the All-New BMW X3 is capable of sprinting from 0-100km in 6.3 seconds at a top speed of 240 km/h. The All-New BMW X3 is capable of generating a maximum output of 252hp and 350Nm of torque, offering supreme driving pleasure with exceptional efficiency. For the full spec sheet, click here: BMW X3 Spec Sheet_Peninsular Malaysia
With the intelligent lightweight construction, the All-New BMW X3 is up to 55kg lighter than its predecessor, which translates to superior dynamic performance and outstanding efficiency. With that in mind, the All-New BMW X3 also has the lowest aerodynamics with a Cd factor of 0.29. The lower the factor, the less drag the body will induce. As a result, a balance between a dynamic yet efficient design is achieved.
Furthermore, the standard Driving Experience Control switch allows the driver choose between various configurations – i.e. ECO PRO, COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT+ modes, all of which are designed to make the vehicle more dynamic, more comfortable or more efficient to drive.
Perfect Off-Road Prowess.
The dynamic handling qualities of the All-New BMW X3 are rooted in its ideal 50:50 weight distribution, its meticulously honed chassis and the xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system. Not only has the system been offering superior grip on slippery surfaces ever since, it has had a beneficial effect on driving dynamics, too. It is interlinked with the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) meaning that the power split between all four wheels can be constantly varied to always produce the handling characteristics for which BMW is renowned, even when the driver is pressing on. Complementing the off-road capabilities of the All-New BMW X3 is Hill Descent Control which helps maintain the SAV at a steady pace when driving down a steep incline.
Comfort-Oriented Interior with a Luxurious Ambience.
The interior of the All-New BMW X3 follows BMW tradition with its driver-focused and ergonomically optimised cockpit layout and carries over many aspects of the car’s exterior design. For instance, hexagonal forms and precise, bevelled edges play a central role in the interior. The interior displays exceptional material quality, fit and finishing, and impresses functionality-wise. One example here is the well-thought-out storage concept, which offers more storage space than ever before and ensures it is easier to access as well as galvanised plating on the air conditioning, audio and steering controls which is luxury to the sight and touch within the premium vehicle.
Evidence of the attention to detail lavished by the designers on the interior of the All-New BMW X3 includes the exclusive BMW X embossing which is highly visible on the B-pillar, enter console and rear door trim. Partially hidden BMW X embossing can also be spotted between the front door and dashboard end.
Upon entering the All-New BMW X3, the driver will be welcomed into the Leather Vernasca with contrast stitching sports seat, with padded side bolsters and eye-catching shoulder section. The dashboard is also set low to offer the distinctive “Command Position”, leaving the driver with a feeling of being in control with a good all-round vision.
With the Luxury Line, the All-New BMW X3 offers leather upholstery, a Sensatec-covered instrument panel with contrast stitching and Dark Oak fine wood interior trim strips with accent strip in Pearl Chrome. The All-New BMW X3 also comes with 6 ambient light colours tones (orange, lilac, mint, bronze, blue and white) with selectable contour and mood lighting.
The All-New BMW X3 also features a rear camera, with Park Distance Control which provides an acoustic and visual (distance only) warning of the obstacle behind the vehicle. To assist the driver further, the Parking Assistant aids with automatic parking into parallel and lateral parking spaces.
Technology and Communication.
In the All-New BMW X3, the new Multifunctional instrument display with Black Panel technology replaces the traditional gauge cluster which has been a common fixture in the page. Besides displaying a breadth of information such as navigation, the three different driving modes – ECO PRO, COMFORT, and SPORT – and their specific displays have their own colour scheme and graphic style.
The 10.25-inch Central Information Display is located above the instrument panel of the All-New BMW X3 with touch control functionality, providing a quick overview of the most pertinent information and offers users intuitive access. With the BMW ConnectedDrive, owners will have seamless connectivity to their car and the world outside. To further enhance driver experience, the All-New BMW X3 also comes with the Welcome Light Carpet, creating a sophisticated atmosphere when approaching the vehicle.
In terms of external colour offering, the All-New BMW X3 offers new and bold colours of Terra Brown, Black Sapphire, Glacier Silver and Alpine White. On the interior, the Leather Vernasca Black is best paired with Alpine White, Black Sapphire, Glacier Silver and Terra Brown; whereas the Leather Vernasca Mokka is best paired with Alpine White and Black Sapphire. The All-New BMW X3 will be available at all authorised BMW dealerships nationwide from Wednesday, 25th April 2018*, with deliveries commencing in July 2018*.
Complete Premium Ownership Experience.
Customers of the All-New BMW X3 can also experience the complete BMW Group Malaysia Premium Ownership experience which includes:
BMW 5-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service Program.
BMW 2-Year/ 24 Month Tyre Warranty Program for its Run Flat Tyre offering and services.
BMW Roadside Assistance and Accident Hotline.
The BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App – BMW White Card.
BMW Service Online.
Full BMW X3 Press Release in Bahasa Malaysia & Chinese here:
Lusting for a Ford Ranger Wildtrak 3.2 but can’t bear the thought of exorbitant annual road-tax? Well good news! Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC), the sole distributor of Ford in Malaysia, has announced the latest addition to the popular Ranger line-up – the Ford Ranger Wildtrak 2.2L – at all showrooms nationwide.
Priced at RM127,8881 (*RM133,8882 – for Sabah & Sarawak), the new Ranger Wildtrak 2.2L offers Malaysian consumers an additional option to own one of the world’s toughest, most capable and versatile pickup trucks that best suits their needs at an even more attractive pricepoint.
To balance power and fuel efficiency, the Ford Ranger Wildtrak 2.2L is powered by a turbocharged 2.2-litre Duratorq four-cylinder TDCi diesel engine putting out maximum power of 160PS at 3,000 rpm and peak torque of 385Nm at 1,600 to 2,600 rpm. Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, the improved engine has been carefully calibrated to deliver significant savings to drivers over the life of the vehicle, while also providing the power Ranger customers demand.
The Ford Ranger Wildtrak 2.2L comes in three colours including Cool White, Pride Orange and Shadow Black. “The Ranger continues to be a Malaysian favourite, and the Wildtrak 2.2L will give Ranger customers even more choice to own the toughest, most capable pickup truck in the market,” said Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz, managing director, Sime Darby Auto Connexion.
To celebrate the launch of the Ranger Wildtrak 2.2L and SDAC’s 10-year anniversary, customers who register to purchase any Ranger model from now to 30 June 2018 will stand to win a grand prize of one Ford Fiesta 1.5L Sport. There are also 15 units of Huawei Mate 10 Pro Smartphones up for grabs. Winners will be determined through monthly lucky draw, with five smartphones to win each month. The grand prize winner will be announced after the final draw in June.
For more information, visit SDAC’s multilingual website (www.sdacford.com.my), which also features a chat-bot in English.
RM127,888 – Price inclusive of GST, on-the-road without insurance for Peninsular Malaysia and private registration only.
*RM133,888 – Price inclusive of GST, on-the-road without insurance for Sabah & Sarawak and private registration only.
